Thursday, 5 February 2015

Truefitt & Hill

Est. 1805 St. James’s London

Words by Caning Jaramillo
Photos by The Yum List (Monica Tindall)

When I was a youngster, my father would take me monthly to the
barbershop in my native country, Venezuela. The trip to the barbershop was
always a source of excitement and sign of independence for me, because this was the
only time I felt like a real adult when my dad allowed me to make decisions for myself: in this case the
type of hairstyle I wanted. Last week, I encountered the same enthusiasm followed these fond childhood memories when I had the privilege to visit Truefitt & Hill, the Oldest Barbershop in the World, as recognized by the Guinness Book of
World Records, in the glamorous Majestic Hotel here in Kuala Lumpur.

Truefitt &Hill's Skillfull Barber Ashkan

Truefitt & Hill barbershop first opened its doors in Mayfair; London in 1805 while King
George III was on England’s throne. This was the era of fine craftsmanship,
innovation and styling that set the scene for later British world dominance and achievement. Truefitt & Hill at this time serviced London’s gentlemen, a very exclusive clientele looking to keep their gently appearances in top-notch condition with an array of exceptional products and unique services. The London barbershop has had the honour of serving monarchs of Great Britain
throughout nine consecutive reigns, and even in these modern times Truefitt’s
barbers visit either the Buckingham Palace or the Windsor Castle to attend to
His Royal Highness. Today, Malaysia is blessed with a number of outlets bringing the same legendary service to the country, and the scene at the heritage boutique hotel of The Majestic Kuala Lumpur, proves a flawless location for such a big name.

Truefitt & Hill Fragrances

Truefitt & Hill Shaving Accessories

New sterile shaving tools and comb for my Royal Cut and Shave session

During
my visit to the barbershop I experienced the Royal Cut (RM95), which took roughly 40 minutes. First I eased into the legendary old-school barber chair, ready, just like in my childhood, to feel special and be spoiled. After discussing my desired outcomes, my skillful barber, Ashkan, cut my hair the way I requested with precision,
using a sterile new comb and new scissors exclusively for me. I felt like a king indeed.

Truefitt & Hill The Ultimate Shave products accessories

Second,
I took The Ultimate Shaving Experience (RM110), a 45 minutes treatment. First up was the pre-shave oil to soften my facial stubble. Next my barber used a soft badger hair brush applying a sandalwood shaving cream in order to create a lovely foam on my face. Suitably prepped, he continued with the shaving: a good close cut that removed every last prickle, even from the trickiest of spots. A fragrancedwarm moisttowel felt heavenly on my face, and I luxuriated in its warmth for about 15 minutes. Calm and relaxed, the service concluded with the application of Truefitt & Hill aftershave balm and a face massage. My skin felt moisturized and
replenished, and my usually sensitive skin had no irritation at all. I was smooth and shine free: what a treatment!

Truefitt & Hill Shoes Polishing chair and extra towels for customers

If you are looking for the perfect gift for your gentleman this Valentine's Day, a gift voucher to this legendary barbershop would surely be a special treat.

Reasons to visit:a legendary experience in the oldest barbershop chain in the world!